The “de Gaulle” Winged Corkscrew – A French Icon with Double Levers and Bottle Opener

The Iconic Corkscrew That Raises the Bar

With its unmistakable silhouette—two large levers resembling raised arms—the “de Gaulle” corkscrew has become an emblematic object in French households and among wine lovers around the world. Its name is a direct homage to General Charles de Gaulle, whose iconic gestures inspired the tool’s design and nickname. Since the 1970s, L’Atelier du Vin has refined and elevated this timeless classic. The current version combines thoughtful engineering with durable materials, staying true to its original essence while offering a smooth and effortless wine-opening experience.

A Corkscrew with Character

Every component of the “de Gaulle” corkscrew has been chosen with care. Its body is crafted from raw zamak, left intentionally uncoated to preserve its authentic, rugged appearance. A transparent protective varnish shields the metal without masking its natural texture. No chrome, no paint—just bold, unapologetic character. The matte black rivets and oversized gears add to its distinctive design, revealing strength at first glance. This corkscrew is not just a tool—it is a statement piece, a companion for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Precision and Ease of Use

At its core, the “de Gaulle” corkscrew is engineered for performance. A specially forged Teflon-coated worm ensures smooth penetration of any cork type without crumbling or breakage. Its five-turn mechanism grips securely and extracts effortlessly. Thanks to its self-centering base lined with soft plastic, the corkscrew positions itself perfectly on the bottle neck, protecting the glass while maximizing stability.

Operating the “de Gaulle” is intuitive:

1. Place the tip of the worm at the center of the cork.
2. Turn the handle while the wings rise automatically.
3. Press down both levers to gently extract the cork.

More Than a Wine Opener

The multifunctional handle doubles as a robust bottle opener, making this tool ideal for removing caps from beer or lemonade bottles of any size. Whether opening a prized vintage or sharing casual drinks with friends, the “de Gaulle” offers versatility without compromise. Its dual-lever system distributes pressure evenly, making it especially easy to use for individuals seeking a foolproof or senior-friendly solution. It combines the best of both worlds: the precision of a worm corkscrew and the efficiency of a lever system.

From Family Tables to Collectors’ Cabinets

Beloved by generations of French families, the “de Gaulle” corkscrew holds a special place in the heart of L’Atelier du Vin’s collection. It is at once utilitarian and poetic, embodying the gestures, traditions, and conviviality of the French art of living. Whether displayed in its signature yellow-and-white decorative case or gifted in a collector’s box, the “de Gaulle” is more than a corkscrew—it is a bridge between the past and the present. For true enthusiasts, L’Atelier du Vin occasionally releases restored vintage editions, complete with original parts and functional mechanisms—each piece a timeless treasure in its own right.